Hidden Gems: Meet Naomi Ayende of Isla 787 Productions

Today we’d like to introduce you to Naomi Ayende.

Hi Naomi, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Isla 787 Productions was born from a deep love for storytelling and a desire to showcase the richness and complexity of Caribbean culture, particularly from Puerto Rico. My journey started back home, where I was immersed in the vibrant stories, music, and resilience of our people. I’ve always been drawn to narratives that reflect our truth—the beauty, the struggle, the humor, and the strength that shape our identity.

After years of studying and working in the arts—both in Puerto Rico and the U.S.—I realized there weren’t enough platforms dedicated to authentic Caribbean voices. That’s when the idea for Isla 787 Productions truly came to life. I wanted to build something that could celebrate who we are, highlight untold stories, and create a bridge between our island and the rest of the world.

We started small, with short films and documentaries that centered on real people and real issues. Over time, we’ve grown into a team that’s fiercely passionate about using film as a tool for change. Every project we take on is guided by purpose, whether it’s addressing social justice, cultural preservation, or personal identity.

Today, we continue to push forward with that same mission—creating original, high-quality work that challenges, inspires, and connects with people across cultures. Isla 787 isn’t just a company; it’s a movement to keep our stories alive and thriving in global conversation.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all—it’s definitely been a road with a lot of twists, bumps, and unexpected turns. Starting Isla 787 Productions wasn’t just about building a company; it was about building a vision from scratch, often with limited resources and navigating an industry that doesn’t always make space for independent or culturally specific voices.

One of the biggest struggles early on was funding. As an independent production company rooted in Puerto Rico, we didn’t have the same access to financial backing or industry connections that bigger studios in places like LA or New York might have. So we had to get creative—crowdfunding, applying for grants, calling in favors, and pulling together talented teams who believed in the mission even when we couldn’t pay them what they deserved.

Another challenge was representation. There’s still a lack of authentic Caribbean stories in mainstream media, and pushing against that norm has meant constantly advocating for our work, educating others on why our stories matter, and often having to prove ourselves over and over again just to get a seat at the table.

But all of it—the sleepless nights, the uncertainty, the hustle—it’s made us stronger and more intentional. Every obstacle has fueled our drive to tell stories that matter and to build a company that represents something bigger than ourselves. We’re still growing, still learning, but every step has brought us closer to the impact we want to make.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Isla 787 Productions?
Isla 787 Productions is more than just a production company—we’re a storytelling collective rooted in Puerto Rican pride and a deep respect for the Caribbean’s cultural richness. We specialize in creating original films, documentaries, and multimedia projects that reflect the heart, soul, and complexity of our communities. Whether it’s a story about identity, resilience, social justice, or everyday life, our work is driven by a commitment to authenticity, representation, and impact.

What sets us apart is our unapologetic dedication to telling stories that often go unheard—stories that challenge stereotypes, celebrate our heritage, and spark meaningful conversations. We don’t just create content; we create experiences that resonate, educate, and leave a mark.

We’re especially proud of how far we’ve come with very little. Every project we’ve completed has been a labor of love, built by a passionate team—many of whom are Puerto Rican and Venezuelan artists—who believe in using film as a powerful tool for connection and change. Brand-wise, we’ve created something that feels like home: bold, heartfelt, creative, and honest.

For anyone learning about us for the first time—know this: Isla 787 is here to amplify voices, elevate culture, and shift narratives. If you’re looking for stories that are rooted in truth and created with purpose, we’re that company. We’re not just here to entertain—we’re here to move you.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Yes! I’m a big believer in feeding both the creative spirit and the entrepreneurial mind, so I lean on a mix of tools that help me stay inspired, focused, and grounded.

For storytelling and creativity, I love listening to the Scriptnotes podcast—it’s a goldmine for anyone in film or screenwriting. I also really enjoy The Business by KCRW, which gives a behind-the-scenes look at the film industry. Books like Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert and The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron have helped me reconnect with creativity during moments of burnout.

On the business side, I use apps like Trello and Notion to stay organized, especially when managing multiple projects. Start With Why by Simon Sinek really shifted my perspective on leadership and purpose, and The War of Art by Steven Pressfield always reminds me to push past resistance and just do the work.

And of course, I try to balance it all with mindfulness—apps like Insight Timer and podcasts like On Being keep me grounded when the stress hits. At the end of the day, I think staying inspired and organized is key, but so is protecting your peace.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.isla787productions.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isla787productions